METROMIX PLANNER: THE BIG EVENT

We dig this season

Spring break

March 22, 2007

Whether you've landed in Chicago for spring break, or you're a local without plans to hit Cancun this year, you can still spring into the season with these options.

NORTH BEACH CHICAGO

5:30 p.m.-2 a.m. Sun.-Fri., 5:30 p.m.-3 a.m. Sat.; reservations recommended. North Beach Chicago, 1551 N. Sheffield Ave.; 312-266-7842. Make like you're in South Beach by bump-set-spiking your way to victory on one of the two indoor beach volleyball courts at this sports-centric bar.

SPRING FLOWER SHOW

9 a.m.-8 p.m. Thu., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Fri.-Wed., weekly through May 13; free. Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave.; 312-746-5100. Just because the old saying pushes April for showers and May for flowers, thanks to this flora showcase you don't have to wait that long to check out spring blooms such as azaleas and other annuals and perennials.